We all know that for a natural acne treatment, lavender and tea tree oils have both antibiotic and antiseptic properties and are nature’s acne cure.

You can apply the oil directly onto the affected area, or mix the oil with water for a more general cleansing of the skin. The natural bacteria killing properties of these two oils will help clear blemishes and prevent pimples.

But did you know that there are other lesser known herbs that will also help heal acne and make acne scars fade naturally?

(Don’t forget to check out this  three part system for specific acne herbal supplements and acne blemish treatment)

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Natural Acne Treatment with Herbs*

Burdock

What is it?

It is essentially a weed that you find growing on the roadside mainly in the northern hemisphere. Its flowers have little tiny hooks that attach themselves to clothing and animal fur.

How can it help my acne problem?

Its roots and to a lesser extend its leaves have great antifungal and antibacteria properties. Taken internally in capsule form, burdock root has blood cleansing, diuretic and purging effects, and will cleanse and detoxify your body of toxins. It will also restore liver and gallbladder functions. Burdock also contains inulin, which can improve the quality of your skin by removing the bacteria.

So how do I take it?

One way to help inprove acne prone skin is to seep 5g of dried burdock leaves in 1 litre of boiling water, and drink the infusion after ten minutes. Do it twice a day.

In root powder form, capsules of 350g can be taken three times a day before meals. (note: can interfer with iron absorption).

There are also creams, lotions and ointments available.

Dandelion Leaves

What is it?

A plant that is found commonly on roadsides and in fields with small yellow flowers in April and May. Later on, a ball of fluffy seeds can be picked up by the wind and dispersed over a wide area.

How can it help with my acne breakouts?

The French call it “piss in the bed” for its cleansing and diuretic powers. It increases bile production and cleanses the liver and blood, and has known to help those with kidney, water retention, cellulite and constipation problems. A cleansed body means clean skin, and it can also prevent age spots.

So how do I take it?

You can get dandelion leaves in small sachets that you infuse in 1 cup of boiling water like tea. Drink twice a day.

In capsule form, 300mg can be taken three times a day.

Red Clover

What is it?

Also called purple or wild clover, this perennial is found mainly in Europe. It is the pink flowering heads that are used.

How can it help with acne removal?

Red Clover has isoflavones, which contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties. Used externally as well as internally, it can also fight bacteria infection and has blood purifying effects. It also strengthens the immune system and has been used for eczema and psoriasis.

So how do I take it?

Make an infusion from 2 teaspoons of flowerhead and 1 cup of boiling water and drink three times a day.

Alternatively, soak a clean cloth or cotton pad in the infusion and apply over the infected area.

(note: Avoid if you are trying to conceive, have tumours, or taking blood thinning drugs)

Aloe Vera

What is it?

A green plant found in dry regions, its thick fleshy leaves with its jagged edges contains the aloe juice found in many natural skin care products.

How can it help heal acne?

Known for its astringent, antifungal, antibacterial and antibiotic effects, the aloe plant can stimulate cell growth, heal wounds and reduce inflammation. It also has moisturing properties that has been used to heal burn wounds. Aloe Vera also has laxative properties which can cleanse the body of toxins.

So how should I take it?

There are many available drinks, capsules, ointment, gels and lotions on the market. Consult your doctor for best results.

Basil

What is it?

It is a herb found in many kitchens and is known for its aromatic fragrance. An annual plant, the flowers grow along the tops of the plant along its stem on the spike.

How will it help to reduce acne?

Basil has antibacterial and astringent effects when applied externally, and can heal wounds and inflammations.

So how should I take it?

An ointment applied to the effected area is the best solution.

Marigold (also known as Calendula)

What is it?

A pretty plant with gold/orange flowers origanlly from the Mediterranean countries. The Romans prized it for many centuries for its ability to cure skin ailments.

How will it stop acne?

Marigold reduces inflammation and is used in many cosmetic preparations as well as products for babies. It is effective against skin rashes, cuts, wounds, sunburn, diaper rash, insect bites and other skin problems found in young and old alike. It also has antibacterial properties.

So how should I take it?

Make an infusion with 5g of dried flowerheads and 1 litre of boiling water. Apply a compress to the affected area 3-4 times a day.

(note: to be taken externally and not internally unless under qualified supervision)

Stinging Nettle

What is it?

Stinging nettle can be found in ditches, road sides and abandoned grounds. With stinging hairs on it leaves, stinging nettles has many uses including clothing.

How will it help in treating acne?

The leaves have strong anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to regulate oil buildup in the scalp and skin.

So how should I use it?

Infuse 5g of leaves in 1 litre of boiling water and wash your face or affected area with the infusion after it has cooled to a luke warm temperature. Alternatively, make a poultice from the leaves or the roots and apply to the infected area.

This  doctor approved cleansing and herbal supplement system comes with natural herb capsules to help combat pimples and zits from the inside, an effective cleansing wash and a facial protection cream to combat unsightly blemishes from the outside. Check it out today!

*Caution Note:

Herbs can be dangerous if taken without medical supervision. Please consult your doctor before taking any herbal remedies.

More Natural Acne Cure Information:

See also Essential Oils for Acne

Chinese Herbs for acne